Next month Cupid will be swooping in and Steamboat with its sun, snow and springs, makes the perfect backdrop for a little romancing. For ideas on happy hour with your hunk, to a mountain top proposal, we got you covered. There’s something for everyone to make smoochy memory makers.

For the athletic pair – skin up Mount Werner late in the day with a backpack of your favorite sun downers and a head lamp. Sip and savor the view as the sun starts to set, before adorning the headlamps and skiing down.

For the spa lovers – soak beneath the stars at the Strawberry Park hot springs. Take the plunge in the cold creek before hopping back into one of the warm pools to cozy up.

For the foodies – start the evening off with a legendary cocktail at The Laundry, their homemade infusions are legendary. Saunter down to Yampa Street and wander along the river to Sauvage. Opt for the six-course tasting menu where flavors are foraged from the fields and forests to the sea. 

For the photographers –pre-order a charcuterie platter from Laura the Butcher and pick up a mini-bottle of bubbles. Stock up on handmade chocolates by Daniela at The Homesteader and pack a basket complete with warm blanket. Head up to Fish Creek Falls and snag a picnic table (you might need to clear off the snow), then set up your picnic by the frozen backdrop of an iconic setting.

For the adrenaline seekers – zip through snowy meadows and wind through aspen groves on a sunset snowmobile ride on Rabbit Ears Pass. Head back into town for a bite to eat at Salt n’ Lime before dancing the night away at Schmiggitys on the main street.

After years of planning for a major overhaul of the base area at Steamboat Resort, the wait is over. Construction crews have moved in and demolition has begun. This first phase kicks off a three-year $135 million redevelopment plan that will see changes both on and off the mountain. 

The gondola and ski school buildings have been torn down and grading work is underway. Among the initial changes is the relocation of the Gondola base terminal which will be a standalone entity. This summer, escalators will be installed as part of a new Gold Walk, to connect the transit center to the base area. 

Grading work will be done in the Bashor area to make way for Greenhorn Ranch, a new learning center  scheduled to open for winter 2022/23. Among other plans is an apres ski plaza with an ice rink, 550 acres of new terrain and the Wild Blue Gondola. 

Redevelopment Timeline from Full Steam Ahead Steamboat

Do I need to make a reservation to use my pass at Steamboat?

Reservations are notrequired for Ikon, Ikon Base, Ikon Session 4-Day, Steamboat season, Steamboat Merchant, 7 Heavenly Daze, Weekday Hall Pass, Early & Late season 3-Day Passes and Snowy Range pass holders at Steamboat, at this time. Guests who pre-book packages approved travel partners, prior to November 2, 2020 will have access for the dates of their pre-booked package.Condos in Steamboat is an approved travel partner.

Can I buy a day lift ticket when I am in Steamboat?

No, at this time single and multi-day lift tickets, not associated with a package are not available. Tickets will not be sold in person at the ticket office this year.

Do I have to wear a face covering?

It is the law in Routt County to wear a face covering to enter a building. Guests and employees at the Steamboat Ski Area will have to wear a face covering while riding in the gondola.

Will there be physical distancing at the Steamboat Ski Area?

The gondola and chairlifts will be running at reduced capacity. Mazes will be expanded to accommodate physical distancing while in line.

Is my ticket refundable?

Guests are urged to take insurance in case of cancelation.

Boatloads of fresh powder and a sunlit blue sky are enough to make most of us plan on spending a day outdoors. Setting yourself up for success on snow is paramount, so we made a checklist to ensure the memories made on a ski trip, are ones you’d want to keep. 

• Dress in layers and wear wool or polypropylene. Breathable fabrics like cotton store moisture and will not keep you warm. On a chilly day, hand and foot warmers work wonders, especially for younger fun seekers.
• Keep hydrated and store up on snacks. Locals love trail mix and Honey Stinger chews to maintain energy levels. If you feel tired, take a break.
• Wear plenty of sunscreen, and goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes. Snow blindness is a real thing.
• Start slowly and build up your activity level. Allow yourself to acclimatize to the altitude.
• Orientate yourself with the ski area and take a free tour from an ambassador, offered daily at the Steamboat Ski Area.
• Keep an eye on conditions and be cognizant of warning notices and closed trails.
• Never approach, or feed, wildlife. You are just as likely to spot a moose at the ski area as you are in the backcountry. Their behavior can change in a second and you can put yourself or them at risk by approaching.
• On the slopes, the downhill skier has the right of way. Always look uphill when you take off again from a stopped position, or when you are merging onto a trail.
• If you plan to explore the backcountry, get a permit from the Forrest Service. If you find yourself in a bad situation and require to be rescued, the permit covers the costs.
• Be careful not to overdo things at après ski. Over consumption of alcohol can cause your body to sweat and reduce your core body temperature. Remember, hot tubs and alcohol don’t mix.

This season’s Steamboat’s Rock The Boat Free Concert Series is underway with The Main Squeeze set to play this Saturday. All concerts are free to the public and take place on the Steamboat Stage in Gondola Square beginning around 3:30pm (with some exceptions).

“This year’s lineup provides a little of something for everyone, with a wide span of musical options,” said Katie Brown, vice president of sales and marketing for Steamboat Ski & Resort Corp. “To be able to bring together our guests and staff in the base area with a musical celebration each weekend is one of the highlights of a visit to Steamboat.”  We have some old favorites returning and fresh new additions to keep everyone on their feet dancing.

The following outlines the full schedule of concerts as part of the Rock the Boat free concert series:

SCHEDULE & BAND LISTING

The Main Squeeze                                             Saturday, March 16                                

A powerful combination of hip-hop, funk, and rock, the Main Squeeze has vastly evolved from their humble beginning as a party band at Indiana University. Their unique sound and soulful energy have propelled them to the stage at Red Rocks as well as performances alongside The Roots and Aloe Blacc. The soulful sound of front man Corey Frye’s vocals mixed with creative instrumentals bring an emotional and funky stage presence that invites the audience to experience and enjoy life. The Main Squeeze debuts their new album, “Without a Sound”, this April which continues to build on their classic yet innovative music with the goal of appealing to the senses of their listeners.

Freddy Jones Band                                            Saturday, March 23                                

Building on their previous roots-rock hits, Freddy Jones Band most recently released “Never Change”, an album described as “euphoric” by the band’s lead singer/songwriter Marty Lloyd. Lloyd is a founding member of the band that was formed in the early ‘90s and is accompanied by Rich Ross on bass, Stu Miller on guitar, and drummer Goose LaPoint. This long-running act brings a mix of Southern rock and blues producing number-one singles such as “In a Daydream”, “Take the Time”, and “Those Diamonds” from their newly debuted album.

Southern Avenue                                               Saturday, March 30                               

Named for a street in their home town of Memphis, Southern Avenue puts a twist on gospel with a unique blend of R&B and soul. Founded by guitarist Ori Naftaly, who grew up in Israel with a passion for blues and funk, the band was formed when Naftaly met Memphis natives Tierinii Jackson and her sister Tikyra who provide soulful vocals and powerful drumming along with bassist Daniel McKee, and Jeremy Powell on the keyboard.

The Commonheart                                              Saturday, April 6         

Debuting their new album, “Grown”, The Commonheart brings an energetic tone and energy infusing crisp sound with powerful instrumentals. The nine-piece band, formed in Pittsburgh, is made up of vocals from front man Clinton Clegg along with trumpet, saxophone, keys, and guitar bring a powerhouse performance with blues, soul, and gospel influence. The Commonheart’s sound is a true testament to the past while completely holding its own as one of today’s most promising acts.

To Be Announced                                               Saturday, April 13       

The Wailers                                                         Sunday, April 14           

Throughout the ‘70s, Bob Marley & The Wailers helped bring the genre of reggae music to the world. Today they continue this quest in memory of their original front man after his untimely passing in 1981. Several original members, including Aston ‘Familyman’ Barrett on bass guitar and lead guitarist Donald Kinsey are among the eight-piece band delivering a bright and innovative sound. The group continues its mission of sharing Bob Marley’s message of unity and the spirit of their leader alive through music.

Snow making at Steamboat Ski Area. Photo: Larry Pierce.

As darkness lifted in the early hours this morning, little plumes of moisture could be seen clouding in clusters over the Steamboat Ski Area. The snow guns were out and Mount Werner was getting primed for her winter coat.

On November 21, Alterra Mountain Company will pop the cork on bottles of Korbel and open their gondola doors for the first riders and boarders of the 2018/ 19 season.

“The countdown to Opening Day is on with the start of snowmaking,” shared Dave Hunter, vice president of mountain operations for the Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation. “We are just about 20 days away, the excitement is building, and our crews are hard at work assisting Mother Nature to create a great early season base for our guests to enjoy.”

New resort owners Alterra, have already started to make a mark on their master development plan for the ski area. The Bear River Bar and Grill at the base of the mountain underwent a mammoth transformation this summer and will reopen as the Timber and Torch. Expanded indoor seating, an oversized deck with outdoor fireplace and barbecue grill area are just some of the changes guests will be able to enjoy.

On the snow, diners can look out for the Taco Beast, a snowcat-come-food truck for some Mexican themed fast food and new signage marking trails and lifts. Although the resort’s 2,965 acres remains untouched, plans are afoot for future developments.

As the new season starts, one thing is certain, the annual line up of winter festivities stays unchanged. The Yampa Valley’s long list of winter traditions will be celebrated on and off the mountain, in true Steamboat style. Cheers to the next winter season.

Last night in downtown Steamboat Springs there was a slew of mysterious behavior. The mad hatter danced down Lincoln Avenue followed by a family of sea gods. A crowd of Vikings strolled the sidewalks passing a monkey with a banana before stopping to greet the three pink ladies. A dragon towered over a crowd of people breathing fire as members of the emergency services looked on, while tossing candy to passing children.

It was Halloween, the most cherished community event of the year. Last night did not disappoint. For two hours Lincoln Avenue was closed to all traffic, except those on foot. Storeowners generously dished out volumes of candy, slices of pizza, pots of ice cream and toothbrushes – yes toothbrushes! There was a scream contest, live musicians and fire jugglers. Families, kids, couples, singles, empty nesters and canine friends strolled the street together absorbing the quintessential Steamboat vibe.

The snow held off despite the chill in the air – much to the amazement of long time locals, who expect the first big dump of year on that very night. The snow never came, but all the usual tradition remained with most adults feeling thankful they are not waking up to teach school in the morning. Thank you Steamboat for another spooktacularly fun night.

In May Steamboat Springs was named the “Most Veterans Friendly Little City in Colorado. Steamboat Pilot and Today reporter Scott Franz gave an insight into what that means to the community, and in honor of Veterans Day we wanted to share his story.

Steamboat Springs — The honor was bestowed on the city by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, or ESGR.

“This is something I think is a great honor that the city of Steamboat Springs deserves that recognizes all of the veterans in the Steamboat area and even throughout Routt County,” said Jim Stanko, ESGR area chairman. “We really have a tremendous tradition here in Steamboat Springs, and a lot of people don’t realize it.”

Stanko said the award will make more people aware of the contributions many local veterans have made to “make this valley the place we all love and want to live in.”

The diverse group of veterans in the audience included former Winter Sports Club skier Crosby Perry-Smith.

Perry-Smith, 91, served in the 10th Mountain Division during WWII and fought in Italy.

After the city made the proclamation, Stanko talked about how generations of Routt County veterans became community and business leaders after they returned from duty.

Steamboat is the second city to earn the ESGR’s Most Veterans Friendly Little City award.

Montrose received the honor last year.

Dick Young, state chairman of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, told the Steamboat Today last month that the city won the award for a number of reasons.

“It’s not any one big thing; it’s really the attitude of a lot people up there year round,” Young said. “They do a lot of good things, and to veterans, it’s pretty important. We thought Steamboat deserved this award.”

ESGR officials were on hand Tuesday evening to present the award to the city.

They also recognized Stanko for his work as area chairman for the ESGR.

Stanko also recognized Craig Kennedy, the program director for Steamboat Adaptive Recreational Sports, for the work he and his organization have done for Wounded Warriors and other veterans with disabilities.

Ahead of ski season we have a myth to dispel. Steamboat Springs has not been set alight with reefer madness. On the contrary. Recreational marijuana was legalized in January 2014, but that doesn’t mean you will come here and see people walking along the sidewalks joint in hand.

There are rules and regulations on where you can and cannot use cannabis, which we thought we should share.

• The City of Steamboat Springs has three dispensaries selling recreational and medical marijuana. There is also one recreational marijuana dispensary in the Town of Oak Creek.

• All three of Steamboat’s dispensaries are located in the west side of town. Rocky Mountain Remedies offers a free shuttle service through Steamboat 420.

• To enter a dispensary you will need a valid ID showing you are over 21 years old. Access to medical marijuana is only for cardholders.

• Colorado residents can purchase 28 grams in a single transaction. Non-residents can purchase up to 7 grams in a single transaction.

• Transporting cannabis over state lines is 100% illegal.

• Consuming cannabis on federal land, including the Steamboat Ski Area is illegal. It is illegal to smoke in public places. Consumption is limited to private areas.

• Be aware of potency. Levels of THC (the active ingredient that makes you high) vary depending on the product and how you choose to consume marijuana. The effects from edibles take longer for the high to kick in, making it easy to over consume. Be patient.

• The legal limit for driving with Delta 9 THC (the active high) in your system is five nanograms per milliliter of blood.